An Analytics Framework for Structuring 3D Printing Deployment Decisions

Businesses view 3D printing as a disruptive technology whose performance is not only a technological game-changer but is also a logistical game-changer. As such, the challenges and opportunities that 3D printing offers requires organizations to carefully rethink their supply chain strategy. A hierarchical modeling and simulation (M&S) framework can help organizations align the myriad of business resourcing decisions that are part and parcel of deploying 3D printing capabilities. Integrating complementary M&S methods provides a pragmatic approach to leveraging the power of analytical techniques and coping with the complex coordination requirements of modern supply networks. This paper provides an analytics framework to help businesses structure their 3D printing deployment decisions and reduce this uncertainty.